Choosing a school community is a very personal thing indeed, and the most important factor is the fit between the child and the school. I feel very strongly that pupils who feel happy and safe are much more likely to succeed, and this is why we insist upon three consecutive taster days before any offer of a place is made and accepted.
Firstly, our size at circa 200 pupils. Class sizes are small and teachers and support staff know the boys and girls very well. Because of this we get the best out of the children, maximising and fulfilling their potential in the classroom and in the wider life of the school. Our curriculum is constantly under review, for example, the recent addition of Citizenship at GCSE, and our co-curriculum is extensive. Our ‘Big 5’ co-curricular activities are academic enrichment, e.g. debating and mock legal trial; community service; outdoor education; performing arts; individual and team sports.
Some people talk about ‘old fashioned values’ but I think this is an unfair description. Our values may be traditional but they remain just as relevant today as they ever were. Our pupils are kind, caring and respectful. They respect themselves and others, and should you visit you can expect a warm greeting, a door held open and for each class to stand when you enter the room. Uniform, behaviour and language are very important at Priory and we expect the highest of standards from everyone.
Pupil leadership and pupil voice play a big part in the daily life of the school, and pupils are encouraged to hone their leadership skills through a variety of posts and roles, to run activities and clubs and to ensure that the School Council contributes to the strategic development of the school. Many longstanding and successful initiatives began with a pupil idea.
I like to think that we are a reflective school, and we teach the value of failure, communication skills, empathy, resilience and the importance of developing a growth mindset.
However, what makes me most proud of our school community is the authenticity of the pupils. They feel safe and supported and can be themselves without fear of criticism or unkindness. They are not in a rush to grow up, as many children are, and conduct themselves in an age-appropriate way. I find their genuineness, honesty and self-worth both refreshing and uplifting, and I hope this is something that strikes you too should you decide to visit us.
You are very welcome to join us on one of our open mornings or for a bespoke visit at any other time, or indeed both.